Owl Species List

Types of Owls and an A-Z Species List

Owls are some of the most popular raptors, not only for their nocturnal habits and amazingly expressive faces, but also for their outstanding abilities and the many legends and superstitions that surround them. They are found worldwide, and it can be easier than many birders realize to go owling and add these remarkable birds to their life list. Furthermore, many owls are ideal ambassador birds at aviaries, zoos and nature centers, so everyone can see them up close and get intimately familiar with their favorite owls.

Types of Owls

There are more than 225 owl species in the world, divided into two families. Barn owls with their distinct heart-shaped facial disks make up the Tytonidae family, while all other owl species are in the Strigidae family. It can seem like there are many more species, however, because many owls go by a number of different common names throughout their ranges. This makes it important to learn the scientific names of owls to be certain of proper identifications and not mistake one common name for an entirely different species.

While only a handful of owl species are classified as endangered, nearly 50 species are vulnerable or threatened with drastic population declines. Several species have not been studied well enough to make a proper determination of their status, and so the numbers of owls that may be in danger of extinction could be even higher. Local populations can also suffer severe threats in parts of their range but not be considered endangered or threatened worldwide.

It is vital that conservation efforts be put in place to protect all owls to preserve these powerful and fascinating birds for future generations of birders to enjoy.

Alphabetical List of Owl SpeciesSorted by Common Name

* - Considered threatened or vulnerable due to population decreases and growing survival threats** - Listed as endangered and in critical danger of extinction if conservation is not implemented (Classifications by BirdLife International)